How to colour grade video (the basics)

Colour grading turns flat footage into something cinematic. Start with these basics.

A video walkthrough for this guide is coming soon.

1. Correct exposure and white balance first. Fix brightness and colour casts before styling.
2. Balance shadows, mids and highlights. Use the wheels to set a clean base.
3. Set a look. Apply a subtle LUT or grade to establish mood.
4. Match your shots. Make clips in a scene look consistent with each other.
5. Keep it subtle and export. Less is usually more; then export your graded video.